6 easy steps to hosting a Christmas party

We get it. You want to be the host with the most and still do the least. And who wouldn’t want their Christmas party to look effortlessly chic? Whether you have three days or three weeks, whether it’s a soiree in your home or a jamboree at the office — here’s what you need to know to make your festive celebration happen.

Step 1: Invite people

It seems obvious, but don’t forget to let people know that the party exists. Give them the details — when, where, why — and get their RSVPs. Make sure they are aware of any other important info too, like the dress code (does a gold dress sufficiently scream “Holiday Glitz”, or do they need to rent an elf costume?) and things they need to bring (Secret Santa presents, or potluck-able food).

Step 2: Have food

Hungry guests do not a successful party make. The basic rule of hosting is ensuring you have enough food, but it’s a huge plus if you bring in memorable dishes. You can get staples and classics from caterers like Kigi (https://www.kigicatering.com/) or Megu (https://megu.com.sg/), and turkey from options as varied as Cold Storage and Goodwood Park Hotel. Up the ante with niche live stations like Otah Scotch Eggs and Crab Meat Kueh Pie Tee by Crack (https://www.facebook.com/crack.singapore/) or Charcoal Waffles with delicious ice cream from Fat Cat Ice Cream Bar (http://fatcat.sg/). Be it a small crowd or a lavish blowout, you can never go wrong with good catering to have you covered for the rest of the party.

Step 3: Figure out drinks

The libations you offer to your guests are pretty important too. For a fuss-free option (and the cool factor of your very own on-site mixologist), look out for pop-up bartenders like The Shake Affinity (http://www.theshakeaffinity.com/). Otherwise, Google your favourite cocktail or mocktail recipes (mulled wine and hot chocolate are go-to Christmas favourites), and you’re good to go!

Step 4: Get the mood right

You don’t need a pine tree to make it feel like Christmas, but decorations won’t hurt. Consider getting wreaths or a year-end inspired bouquet from indie florists like Bloomen (http://bloomen.co/) or Windflower (http://windflowerflorist.com/) to brighten up your venue. Fix up a Spotify playlist. Invest in nice cutlery. The details may not be noticed by all your guests, but they’ll put you in the mood.

Step 5: Plan games or organise gift exchanges

Whether it’s Secret Santa, White Elephant (a variant of the former, where everyone packs silly or unwanted gifts) or good old board games, make use of the holiday gathering to kill some time and have some fun.

Step 6: Have a backup plan

Planning any event is bound to throw up a few surprises here and there. But have no fear – just be flexible and go with the flow. If organising the party feels like it is increasingly out of your hands, why not just book a table at these top-notch restaurants and let them take care of the dinner for you instead? You can preside over your Christmas bash from their restaurant. The best part? You don’t have to handle the clean-up. 😉